Londy Ngcobo, known as the “Black Mermaid,” is not only a Ship Navigator but also holds the distinction of being Africa’s First Female Dredge Master. In a recent interview, she shared her experiences and insights into her remarkable career journey.
When asked about her pioneering role as Africa’s First Female Dredge Master, Londy expressed a deep sense of honor. She mentioned feeling privileged to have opened doors for other young women aspiring to become ship captains in the future. This acknowledgment underscores her commitment to not only achieving personal success but also paving the way for greater gender diversity and inclusion in the maritime industry.
Londy’s journey into the maritime world began with a passion for mathematics and science during her high school years. This love for these subjects led her to pursue maritime studies, a decision that would shape her future profoundly. After completing her education at Durban University of Technology, Londy joined the renowned Maersk Group, the largest shipping line globally. Her tenure at Maersk saw her rise through the ranks, culminating in her qualification as a Master on Port Operations vessels, a historic achievement as Africa’s first female dredge master.
Despite her remarkable accomplishments, Londy acknowledges the challenges of working in a male-dominated industry. Globally, women represent only 2% of the maritime workforce, highlighting the ongoing need for greater gender diversity and equality. Londy emphasized that even with 17 years of experience, she still finds herself having to prove her capabilities in boardroom settings, illustrating the persistent barriers women face in advancing their careers in such environments.
Throughout her career, Londy has worked on coastlines across Africa, including Togo, Senegal, Libreville, Mozambique, Congo, Madagascar, and more. Her extensive experience and dedication to her craft have solidified her reputation as a skilled and respected professional in the maritime sector.
In her efforts to increase female representation in the maritime industry, Londy founded Womaritime, a consultancy firm focused on the oceans economy, legal and compliance aspects, and training within the maritime sector. Additionally, she leads the Global Maritime Youth initiative as part of her corporate social responsibility efforts, aiming to elevate female representation to 10% globally.
Londy Ngcobo’s story is not just one of personal success but also a testament to resilience, determination, and a commitment to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for future generations of women in the maritime industry.
